Emergency resources for Native Americans are designed to provide immediate assistance during times of crisis, such as natural disasters, health emergencies, and other urgent needs. Here’s a list of available resources that can help Native American communities in times of need:
Indian Health Service (IHS)
- IHS Emergency Medical Services (EMS): Provides immediate health services, including during public health emergencies, for Native American communities.
- IHS Disaster Preparedness: Works with state and federal agencies to provide health support during disasters.
FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency)
- Emergency Assistance for Native American Tribes: FEMA provides assistance for tribes to prepare for and respond to disasters, including grants for emergency response and recovery efforts.
- Individual Assistance Program: Offers support for Native American individuals who are victims of disaster, including funding for housing, food, and medical needs.
Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) – Office of Justice Services
- The BIA provides emergency assistance in the form of law enforcement and support services during crises affecting tribal communities. They also coordinate emergency response resources during natural disasters.
National Native American Emergency Management Council (NNAEMC)
- Works to improve emergency management policies and practices within Native American communities, offering resources for tribes in need of assistance during disasters.
American Red Cross
- Disaster Relief for Native Americans: The Red Cross provides emergency assistance, including food, shelter, and medical services during natural disasters. It also partners with Native American organizations to support communities in need.
The Native American Disaster Relief Fund
- A fund designed to provide immediate financial aid and resources to Native American tribes and individuals impacted by disasters.
- Managed by several organizations, including local tribal governments and national advocacy groups.
Tribal Emergency Assistance Programs
- Many Native American tribes have their own emergency programs that offer food, clothing, shelter, and financial aid to members in crisis situations.
- Examples include programs managed by individual tribal governments or through the Indian Community Development Block Grant (ICDBG) Program.
Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) – Indian Housing Block Grant Program
- Provides funds to tribal communities for housing relief during emergencies such as fires, floods, or severe weather events.
Tribal Nations Emergency Assistance Programs
- Many tribes provide specific emergency assistance to their members, which can include food, shelter, health care, and other necessities during times of crisis.
- Assistance often depends on the specific tribe or region, so contacting tribal offices is essential for support.
Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA)
- Offered through state labor departments, DUA provides unemployment benefits to individuals whose employment has been lost or interrupted as a result of a disaster. Native Americans can apply through their state’s disaster response programs.
Native American Relief Fund by the First Nations Development Institute
- This fund helps Native American communities recover from emergencies, particularly in cases involving public health crises, natural disasters, or economic hardships.
American Indian College Fund
- In times of educational emergencies or financial hardship, the American Indian College Fund offers support to Native American students who are affected by crises such as natural disasters or health emergencies.
National Congress of American Indians (NCAI)
- The NCAI advocates for policy changes and provides emergency resources to tribes facing immediate challenges, including during public health emergencies, climate-related disasters, and more.
The National Indian Health Board (NIHB)
- Provides health-related emergency services and resources, especially during public health emergencies or when Native American communities face sudden health threats such as pandemics.
- Supports tribes in accessing federal emergency health resources and funding.
Indian Country COVID-19 Response Fund
- Created in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, this fund provides financial support and resources to Native American tribes and communities during the ongoing pandemic or in the event of future public health emergencies.
Indian Law Resource Center – Legal Assistance During Emergencies
- Provides legal advocacy and assistance in times of emergency, especially related to land rights, resource management, and public safety during natural disasters.
These resources provide Native American communities with the tools they need to respond to emergency situations, whether through health care support, financial relief, legal assistance, or recovery efforts. Each tribe may also have unique resources and contacts, so it is helpful to connect directly with local tribal governments or organizations for additional support during crises.
Turtle Island Resources 